Shared secrets: intelligence and collective security
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Shared secrets: intelligence and collective security

In a Lowy Institute Paper, Dr Simon Chesterman of New York University writes on the relationship between intelligence and collective security.

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Executive Summary

Is collective security possible when the evaluation of and response to threats depend on access to intelligence that cannot be shared openly? Shared Secrets: Intelligence and Collective Security examines the role national intelligence does and could play in addressing threats to international peace and security, with particular reference to the contemporary threats of terrorism and proliferation of WMD.

Chesterman argues it is neither feasible nor desirable for the United Nations or other international organisations to develop an independent capacity to collect secret intelligence; however, they should be able to receive, access and use sensitive information.

The Paper can be downloaded here.

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